Over the years, I’ve tried a number of different programs to organise my stash – these have ranged from MS Access templated programs, to very complex databases.
The Organised Expressions range is one of the more complex database based products, but it’s very user friendly, and includes items that you’ve never thought of.
Naturally, it has pre-loaded database of the more common ranges of thread and beads, but also lets you create your own list of custom threads. All in all, there is a range of threads from 25 different companies pre-loaded.
You can also enter in your charts, kits, books, etc., and then when you start to stitch a project, you can keep a track of the progress of the project, and it allows you to scan in a picture of the finished piece as a record. It also has an area where you can enter in the classes you’ve done, and the details of the class.
An address book is also included, and this works in nicely with your e-mail program so that, if you wanted, you could use it for all your e-mail address.
The notes aspect of this program has improved, and you can now save a word document into the database with a particular entry.
This program allows you to do thread conversions (very handy if you want to use your stash for a project, and have multiple thread brands – as I do!) and search for anything on the database.
The best aspect of all with this program is that it lets you print a list of your stash, including cost, that you can give to your insurance company, and that your insurance will accept as proof of the items.
This can be very useful in the event of a claim being made, especially if you provide the company with the list each year when you renew your insurance.
The Organised Expressions range has been around for quite a few years now, but I will admit that it’s the only needlework organization program that I’ve found has stood the test of time (and my stash).
Organised Expressions is produced by LNS Software Solutions – you can find them on the web and order from them at: LNS Software
The full range of Organised Expressions software is:
Scrapbooking
Rubber Stampers
Knitters and Crocheters
Needleworkers
All Quilters
People Who Sew
I can’t recommend this product highly enough. The people at LNS give great customer service – they can’t seem to do enough for you!
Great product, great service, great price. What more can a dedicated stitcher ask?
Is there anything that you would particularly like to see an article on? If so, please e-mail me with your suggestions.
Happy Stitching
Megan
© 2005 Megan McConnell
